Follow

Spotlight Album: From Elvis In Memphis

1969: Music was changing: The Beatles were in the studio working on their last album together as a band, Motown artists were working on themed album concepts over top 40 singles, and Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin were taking rock music into a heavier and darker area. During this transition time, Elvis Presley made his comeback with a legendary NBC TV Special. After years of movies and pop soundtrack singles, Elvis followed it up with his 35th album: “From Elvis In Memphis”. The album was a masterpiece of well-written songs that emotionally moved Elvis and generated an intensity and vulnerability that stands out in his illustrious career.

Memphis was the original scene for Elvis’ early recordings with Sun Records. But in the decade to follow, Memphis moved beyond rockabilly and the famous Stax record label became a leader in authentic soul music. Elvis blended his love of gospel, country, and R&B during these Memphis Sessions. The best songwriters of the time: Mac Davis (Suspicious Minds), Burt Bacharach (Any Day Now), Gamble & Huff, even Eddy Arnold contributed material. In 2000, a reissue version included 6 bonus tracks recorded at the same time.